Device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment

ABSTRACT

A device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment is provided. The device includes a rounded element constructed of a rigid non-metal material. The rounded element has a width, a length, and a rounded perimeter edge. The device also includes a continuous elastic band configured to stretch around the rounded element. During use, the rounded element is configured to be placed against an inner outer portion of a fabric layer of the garment and the elastic band is configured to wrap around an outer inner portion of the fabric layer of the garment such that the inner portion of the fabric layer completely surrounds the rounded element cinching the garment at the location of the device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/166,137 filed on Mar. 25, 2021, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated in its entirety at least by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to garment accessories but more particularly to a device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment.

2. Description of Related Art

Finding clothing “off the rack” that fits all your body's proportions can be difficult if not impossible. Altering the fit or style of clothing is often permanent and requires the time and expense of a professional tailor. Tying knots in T-shirts, dresses and skirts is a popular way to temporarily alter the fit or style. Knots can add unwanted bulk and appear sloppy. Knots may only be used when there is sufficient excess fabric to form a knot. Further, knots often do not have the holding power to withstand the movement of the wearer. Consequently, a device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment is provided.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The present invention is used to neatly cinch and secure excess fabric creating a slimmer and more tailored fit with a gathered or ruched effect. Versatility is added to the wardrobe as garments may be “tailored” differently with each use. Use of this device does not require puncturing or otherwise damaging the fabric. The device may be conveniently removed and reused.

It is a primary object of the invention to provide a device to alter the style or fit of a garment. It is an object of the invention to keep the excess fabric of the garment flush and eliminate unnecessary bulk under the garment when in use. It is another object of the invention to provide a device that is inconspicuous and hidden during use. It is yet another object of the invention to provide a lightweight device that does not cause fabric to hang or droop when in use. It is another object of the invention to be removable and reusable. It is another object of the invention to be gentle on fabric. It is another object of the invention to provide an exact fit with a secure hold. It is yet another object of the invention to provide a device configured to fasten multiple layers of fabric together. It is another object of the invention to be utilized anywhere on a garment, and not restricted to a hemline.

In order to do so, a device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment is provided, comprising a rounded element comprised of a rigid non-metal material, wherein the rounded element has a width, a length, a center portion, and a rounded perimeter edge; an elastic band comprised of a continuous band configured to stretch around the rounded element; and, wherein a first mode of operation, the rounded element is configured to be placed against an inner portion of a fabric layer of the garment and the elastic band is configured to wrap around an outer portion of the fabric layer of the garment such that the inner portion of the fabric layer completely surrounds the rounded element cinching the garment at the location of the device.

In one embodiment, the rounded element has a hollow circular or decorative shape in the center portion. In one embodiment, the outer perimeter edge comprises a rounded smooth edge configured to minimize damage to the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded element has a varying thickness from the outer perimeter edge to the inner perimeter edge, wherein the thickness at the outer perimeter edge is greatest. In one embodiment, the rounded element is a circle, and the length and the width are equal. In one embodiment, the rounded element is an oval or ellipse, and the length is greater than the width. In one embodiment, the rigid non-metal material is lightweight such that drag is minimized on the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded element is one of: transparent, nude, or a color matching the garment such that the device is not visible through the fabric layer of the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded perimeter edge is free of ridges, sharp corners, or rough edges to minimize damage to the garment. In one embodiment, the length and the width are between 1 and 6 inches. In another embodiment, the length and the width are between 0.5 and 12 inches. In one embodiment, the center portion is solid and includes an outer perimeter edge and a central solid portion. In another embodiment, the solid central portion includes insignia, designs, or decoration and dimensions or sizing corresponding to the amount of fabric cinched by the device. In one embodiment, the rounded element includes text, dimensions or sizing corresponding to the length and the width of the rounded element. In one embodiment, the rigid non-metal material does not bend or break during use. In one embodiment, the rigid non-metal material of the rounded element is lightweight such that it does not drag on the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded element is thin such that it minimizes bulk under the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded element is configured to withstand machine washing and drying.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present disclosure so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the disclosed specific methods and structures may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of the rounded element of the device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is a front view of an exemplary hollow, rounded element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a front view of an exemplary solid rounded element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is a front view of an exemplary hollow elliptical shaped element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B is a front view of an exemplary solid elliptical shaped element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary perspective view illustrating using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 6-6 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the device in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a front view of multiple devices in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the device in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view and a detailed view of the device in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an additional cross-sectional view of the rounded element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A-B are exemplary cross-sectional shapes taken along section line 12-12 of FIG. 3B.

FIGS. 13A-D are examples of various center portion designs of the rounded element according to embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment.

It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as to mean “at least one”. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. As used herein, the terms “about”, “generally”, or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider near the stated amount by about 0%, 5%, or 10%, including increments therein. In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

FIG. 1 is a front view of the rounded element of the device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 1, the rounded element is illustrated 100. In one embodiment, the rounded element 100 comprises a rounded body 101 constructed from a rigid nonmetal material. In one embodiment, a plastic material is used. The rigidness of the selected material is such that the rounded element 100 does not bend or break when in use. Further, the selected material should not set off a metal detector and cause the user to remove the device before entering the metal detector. In one embodiment, the color of the rounded element 100 is transparent. In other embodiments, the color of the rounded element 100 is nude or a color matching the garment or fabric intended to be used with the present invention. The importance of the color is such that the rounded element is not visible through the garment or fabric in which the device is installed. In the illustrated embodiment, the rounded element 100 is hollow and includes a space 104 in the center. The hollow center ensures the rounded element is lightweight, and the material selection is preferably lightweight as well.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the rounded element 100 further comprises an outer diameter 102 and inner diameter 103, wherein both edges of the outer and inner diameters are rounded and smooth such that the element does not damage or tear the garment or fabric during use. The outer diameter 102 and inner diameter 103 may be referred to the outer perimeter edge and inner perimeter edge respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross-section of the rounded element body 101 is illustrated. In this view, the rounded edges of the inner 103 and outer diameter 102 are clearly visible. In one embodiment, the body 101 of the rounded element includes a top surface 105 and a bottom surface 106, wherein in some embodiments, the body tapers inward from the outer diameter to the inner diameter such that the thickness 111 at the outer diameter is greater than the thickness 112 at the inner diameter. Advantageously, this cross-section and in combination with the rounded edges provides no edges to catch on the fabric and helps to ensure even tension on the fabric at all points of contact. This will be discussed in further detail below. It should be noted that cross-sectional shape shown is one example, and the shape may vary, as long as the thickness is greatest at the outer diameter or outer perimeter edge of the rounded element. Alternative examples can be seen in FIGS. 12A-B

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-4B, many different shapes and sizes are provided. The shape and size will determine how much fabric is cinched. For example, in FIG. 3A, a ring shaped rounded element is provided 100, which includes length 107 and width 108, wherein the length equals the width. In alternative embodiments, the shape of the rounded element is elliptical or oval shaped. For instance, in FIGS. 4A-B, an elliptical shape rounded element is provided. In one embodiment, the elliptical shape rounded element 200 includes length 207, width 208, wherein the width 208 is greater than the length 207. In some embodiments, the length and width are between 0.5″ and 12″. In other embodiments, the length and width are between 1″-6″. The same principles, features, and limitations apply to the elliptical or oval shaped element.

Still referring to FIGS. 3A-4B, in some embodiments, such as seen in FIGS. 3B and 4B the center of element 100B is solid 110. In alternative embodiments, such as seen in FIG. 3A, the center of the element 100 is hollow with a circular shape, but may be any decorative shape, text or branding. The hollow center is advantageous to reduce the weight of the rounded element. In some embodiments, the center portion of the rounded element includes branding, text, dimension, sizes, logos, or any other decorative elements. Some examples of the center of the element 100 are shown in FIGS. 13A-D. It should be understood, that other shapes and designs may be provided without departing from the spirt and scope of the invention. The same principle features and limitations apply to the solid or hollow shape.

Referring now to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, the rounded element has a varying thickness such that the thickness is greatest at the outer perimeter edge 111. The radius 102 of the edge should be maximized to provide maximum surface area to distribute the tension across fabric, minimizing potential for damage to fabric. The thickness 112 should be thick enough to provide strength so the rounded element does not easily twist, bend, or break. It's also advantageous to minimize the thickness of the rounded element to reduce bulk under the fabric or garment, and to reduce drag on the fabric caused by the weight of the rounded element. As one skilled in the art may appreciate, the weight of the rounded element is proportional to the amount of material used. In some embodiment, a hollow rounded element with a length and width of 1.5″ has a weight of 2.2 grams.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary perspective view illustrating using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 5, the device comprises a rounded element 100 as previously described and an elastic band 300. In one embodiment, the elastic band is comprised of a continuous band of elastic material and is sized and configured to stretch around the rounded element during use as illustrated. More specifically, during use the rounded element 100 is placed on a layer or multiple layers of fabric 400, wherein the fabric is positioned around the rounded element and then the elastic band is secured around the fabric one or more times to ensure the rounded element is held in place. The size (length and width) of the rounded element is selected for how much fabric will cinch during use. In one embodiment, the amount of fabric cinched is about equal to double the outer diameter of the rounded element, for example a 3″ outer diameter rounded element will cinch 6″ of fabric. The fabric may be part of a garment or accessory, including but not limited to scarfs, wrap skirts, diapers, dresses, t-shirts, blouses, or similar. However, the device is not limited to garments or clothing accessories, and may be used for upholstery, drapery, tablecloths, pillow covers, sheets, slipcovers, or similar. In the illustrated embodiments, the visible fabric 400 is the inner layer of fabric such that the rounded element is hidden during use. It should be understood, that this is the intended use only. It should also be understood, that reference to the inner and outer fabric layers below and in the claims are relative to the rounded element and not indented to imply and reference to a user's perspective when the invention is in use.

Advantageously, the rounded element acts as a form which the fabric is wrapped around and cinched with the elastic band at the center of the rounded element. The rounded element is configured to keep all the excess fabric taught, flat, and tidy under the garment. Further, the rounded element prevents the fabric from slipping through the elastic band.

In one embodiment, the elastic band 300 is comprised of rubber, silicone, or similar elastic material or combination of materials. It should be large enough to stretch around the rounded element. More than one elastic band may be used during use. As previously mentioned, the rounded element 100 is comprised of a non-metal rigid material. The rigidness of the material should be as such that the rounded element does not bend when wrapped with fabric during use. In some embodiments, the rounded element 100 is comprised of plastic, wood, foam, or similar rigid material. The material used should be safe and comfortable for clothing and the wearer. Further, the material should also be able to withstand machine washing and drying machine use.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view taken along section line 6-6 of FIG. 5 is illustrated. In this view, the rounded perimeter edge 102 ensures the fabric 400 and particularly the inner layer of fabric 402 does not catch on any edge of the rounded element. Again, the inner layer of fabric does not correlate to the non-visible fabric layer as viewed by the wearer, it is the portion of fabric the contacts the surface (perimeter edge 102) of the rounded element 100. Further, the larger outer perimeter edge 102 ensures that tension on the fabric is well distributed. The rounded perimeter edge maximizes surface area and eliminates corners or sharp edges that could damage the fabric as the elastic band is wrapped around the outer layer 401 of fabric 400.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate exemplary instances of the device in use. For instance, in FIG. 7, the device 700 is used to cinch a shirt. Likewise, in FIG. 8, multiple devices 800 are used to cinch in the waist portion of a garment, and an additional device 801 is used to shorten the skirt portion of the same garment. In FIG. 9, the device 900 is used to fasten closed a wrap skirt. Again, in FIG. 10, the device 1000 is used to cinch a shirt. These are just a few examples, and other uses may be provided as previously described. Still referring to FIG. 10, a detailed cross-sectional view of the device in use is illustrated, wherein the rounded element 100 is surrounded by fabric 400 and secured via the elastic band 300.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the rounded element with a hollow center portion in the shape of a circle, similarly taken along section lines 2-2 of FIG. 2. The rounded element body 101 comprises an inner 103 and outer diameter 102 as well as top surface 105 and bottom surface 106, wherein, the body tapers inward from the outer diameter to the inner diameter such that the thickness 111 at the outer diameter is greater than the thickness 112 at the inner diameter. Further, the rounded outer diameter has radius 102R and the rounded inner diameter has radius 103R. In one embodiment, thickness 111 is 0.12″, thickness 112 is 0.06″, radius 102R is 0.06″, and radius 103R is 0.03″. In general, the thickness should be between 0.01″ and 1″, however as previously mentioned, the thickness should be minimized. It should be understood, that the dimensions provided are merely examples, and the values may vary.

Still referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, special consideration should be taken to ensure that no rough or sharp protrusions result along the outer perimeter edge of the rounded element as part of the manufacturing process.

FIG. 12A-12B are exemplary cross-sectional shapes taken along section line 12-12 of FIG. 3B. As one skilled in the art can appreciate several cross-sectional shapes may be provided, and only a few examples are illustrated. In any selected cross-sectional shape, as previously defined, the outer diameter 102 is rounded with a maximum radius and the thickness 111 approximate the outer diameter 102 is greater than the thickness 112 towards the inner portion of the rounded element.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, the labels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such as upper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal, distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations between various portions of an object.

In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. members throughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) are not used to show a serial or numerical limitation but instead are used to distinguish or identify the various members of the group. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment comprising: a rounded element comprised of a rigid non-metal material, wherein the rounded element has a width, a length, a center portion, and a rounded perimeter edge; an elastic band comprised of a continuous band configured to stretch around the rounded element; and, wherein a first mode of operation, the rounded element is configured to be placed against an inner portion of a fabric layer of the garment and the elastic band is configured to wrap around an outer portion of the fabric layer of the garment such that the inner portion of the fabric layer completely surrounds the rounded element cinching the garment at the location of the device.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element has a hollow circular or decorative shape in the center portion.
 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the outer perimeter edge comprises a rounded smooth edge configured to minimize damage to the garment.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element has a varying thickness, wherein the thickness at the outer perimeter edge is greatest.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element is a circle, and the length and the width are equal.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element is an oval or ellipse, and the length is greater than the width.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the rigid non-metal material is lightweight such that drag is minimized on the garment.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element is one of: transparent, nude, or a color matching the garment such that the device is not visible through the fabric layer of the garment.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded perimeter edge is free of ridges, sharp corners, or rough edges to minimize damage to the garment.
 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the length and the width are between 1 and 6 inches.
 11. The device of claim 1, wherein the length and the width are between 0.5 and 12 inches.
 12. The device of claim 1, wherein the center portion is solid and includes an outer perimeter edge and a central solid portion.
 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the solid central portion includes insignia, designs, or decoration and dimensions or sizing corresponding to the amount of fabric cinched by the device.
 14. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element includes text, dimensions or sizing corresponding to the length and the width of the rounded element.
 15. The device of claim 1, wherein the rigid non-metal material does not bend or break during use.
 16. The device of claim 1, wherein the rigid non-metal material of the rounded element is lightweight such that it does not drag on the garment.
 17. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element is thin such that it minimizes bulk under the garment.
 18. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element is configured to withstand machine washing and drying. 